8. Aaronic Priesthood

8.16 Adapting the Young Men Organization to Local Needs

In a ward or branch with few young men, Aaronic Priesthood quorums may meet together for instruction (see 8.11). They also may meet together for activities.

If adult leadership is limited in a ward or branch, the Young Men presidency may teach the Sunday lessons and administer the activity program without assistant advisers. In a very small unit, the Young Men president may be the only adult leader in the Young Men organization. In this case, he teaches the Sunday lessons and oversees activities for all young men. When possible, counselors and a secretary should be called.

Because youth often benefit from socializing in larger groups, the young men and young women in two or more small wards or branches may meet occasionally for combined activities. If neighboring wards and branches have few young men, the bishops and branch presidents may authorize the young men to meet together for weekly activities. When considering these options, bishops and branch presidents take into account factors such as distance and travel cost.

In a small stake or a district, the Young Men president may be the only stake or district Young Men leader. When possible, counselors and a secretary should be called.

For general information about adapting to local needs, see chapter 17.